Nightjars have recently prospered in areas such as the Goyt Valley, Derbyshire, in line with national increases in their numbers and range. This appears to be particularly true following the clearance of conifers, which has created a mix of old Scots pine and open space suitable for these crepuscular, ground-nesting migrant birds.
Nightjars are more often heard than seen. Their vocalisation is known as 'churring', a continuous throat song described as part stridulation and part deep earth rumble. They also make a sharp, monosyllabic 'gwic' call while flying. Additionally, a loud, clear clap can be heard when a pair brings their wings together overhead during an aerial tangle.
Male nightjars possess intense white terminal spots on their outermost flight and tail feathers. These luminous dots can be seen inscribing lines of white into the darkness as the bird flies.